• Isaac—son of Abraham and Sarah, married Rebekkah and was the father of Jacob.
  
• Rahab (the prostitute)—harbored Joshua’s men in Jericho in exchange for safety, married Salmon and had several children, including Boaz.
  
• Ruth—married Boaz while caring for Naomi and was the mother of Obed.
  
• Manasseh—became king, lost his throne, returned to the throne where he redeemed his ways and followed a life in the Lord, married and fathered Amon.

Unbeknownst to them, they were also being used for a purpose greater than any of them could have imagined—in the lineage of God’s only Son. 

At times, we may be so consumed by our own problems and our own desires, or be fixated on wanting to follow someone else’s path (not realizing they are facing obstacles too), that we can’t step back long enough to look at the bigger picture, or to let go of the situation and have faith that God will and is handling it.

The Indiana Jones ride offers potential rewards of earthly riches, eternal youth, and future knowledge (during its five minutes of excitement).  Jesus offers actual rewards of riches in heaven, a glorious body in eternity, and knowledge and wisdom (and more), if we put our faith and trust in Him. 

Jump in, take your hands off of the wheel, and let Him take control.  He has plans for you, “plans to prosper not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 

What an amazing ride it will be.

Cliff Young is a contributing writer to Sandlot Stories (ARose Books), as well as the monthly column, "He Said-She Said," in Crosswalk.com's Singles Channel.  An architect and former youth worker, he now works with Christian musicians and consults for a number of Christian ministries. Got feedback?  Send your comments and questions to CYdmg@yahoo.com. 

**This article first published on July 2, 2009.